Differentiated Assessment Meaning and Significance

Differentiated Assessment Meaning and Significance - Factors and importance

1. Differentiated Assessment-Meaning and Significance Suresh Babu G Assistant Professor CTE CPAS Paippad , Kottayam

2. Differentiated assessment Differentiated assessment   is an ongoing process through which teachers gather data before, during, and after instruction from multiple sources to identify learners' needs and strengths .

3. Differentiated assessment  is the way by which teachers modify and match assessment with the varied characteristics/profiles of students in order to meet the students’ individual needs , thereby enhancing their learning and boosting their ability to show what they have learned. Students differ in their previous learning experiences, readiness, learning styles, preferences, academic standing, abilities, strengths and weaknesses, culture, race, and backgrounds.

4. Teachers use differentiated assessment to match and respond to the varying learning needs of diverse students in a classroom. By differentiating assessments, teachers help diverse students to successfully demonstrate their competencies in particular ways that are fitting and effective for them. By providing various assessment methods/activities appropriate for particular types of students, the teachers are able to meet the students’ individual needs, thereby helping them to be successful in their learning.

5. Differentiated Assessment Involves Collecting data before, during and after teaching and learning experience. Using the evidence to identify a students needs and strengths Using assessment information to guide differentiated teaching and learning. Providing alternative methods and choices for students to demonstrate their knowledge, understanding and skills. Considering what resources and stimulus materials will assist students

6. Providing opportunities to challenge students within their level of understanding and beyond. Provide individualized feedback to students to help identify strengths and areas for improvement. Accommodating a range of students needs through flexible assessment planning and adjustments.

7. Factors of Differentiated Assessment Differentiated assessment may take into account the difference between individual students, such as their : Current level of understanding and ability in relation to a particular topic or skills. Prior learning experiences Learning style and preference. Motivation and engagement with leaning Interests and talents

8. Factors considered for planning Differentiated assessment 1. Nature of the test instrument, including teacher-made tests, interest surveys, anecdotal evidence, performance based activities, checklists of traits and characteristics, cognitive/intellectual and standardized achievement tests. 2. Nature of the feedback, including teacher observation of performance, parent/peer observation and feedback, interviews and conferences, and cumulative school history.

9. 3. Involvement of students in the teaching, learning and assessment process, such as providing opportunities for self-assessment and self-reflection and the use of portfolios, learning journals and other ICT tools.

10. Significance of Differentiated Assessment It aids students with learning difficulties whether identified or not. It provides students with opportunities for deeper or higher-level learning. It allows students to manage their own learning through the varied choices to school tasks assigned to them. It lets teachers plan and design assessment that perfectly matches the students strengths or weakness.

11. It considers student readiness, interest and leaning profiles. It embraces the concept of multiple intelligences. It makes lessons more authentic which allows students to make connections. It assures that no leaner is left behind. It gives various opportunities to teachers and students for collaborative and cooperative learning. It engages students to self-reflect and manage their own learning.